A Study on Problems and Prospects Analysis of Cotton Farmers in Middle Gujarat

Abstract

This study examines the challenges and opportunities faced by cotton farmers in Middle Gujarat, focusing on the factors that influence their production and income. Surveying 340 farmers, the research found that unpredictable weather, pest attacks, and unstable markets are major challenges. At the same time, factors such as farm size and access to trustworthy information about farming inputs play a significant role in determining the amount of cotton they produce. Many farmers have limited formal education and mostly use chemical pesticides, though some are beginning to adopt more sustainable methods like Integrated Pest Management. Income gaps and difficulties in accessing markets make it harder for farmers to earn well. Statistical analysis shows clear links between the challenges faced, land size, input knowledge, and yield. The study suggests that farmers would benefit from better training, easier access to credit, stronger market support, and advice on climate-smart farming. These steps could help improve their productivity and livelihoods.

Introduction

Context and Importance

Cotton farming plays a vital role in India's agriculture and rural livelihoods, especially in Gujarat, one of the leading cotton-producing states. While the sector supports the textile industry and offers export potential, it is plagued by numerous challenges that impact farmers’ income, productivity, and sustainability.

???? Objectives of the Study

1. Identify the major challenges faced by cotton farmers.

2. Analyze their socio-economic conditions.

3. Assess awareness and use of government schemes among farmers.

???? Methodology

• Type: Descriptive study

• Region: Middle Gujarat

• Sample: 340 cotton farmers, selected via cluster and random sampling

• Data Tools: Structured questionnaires, interviews, SPSS software

• Analysis: Percentage analysis and Chi-square tests for variable relationships

???? Key Literature Insights

• Technological adoption (Bt cotton, IPM) has improved yields.

• Government schemes (like CDP, BCI) show mixed success—boosting productivity but not always labor welfare.

• Challenges include climate change, pest resistance, market inefficiencies, and lack of awareness.

• Success factors: Better seeds, irrigation, information access, and mechanization improve outcomes.

???? Major Findings

????‍???? Farmer Profile

• Education: 59.7% have only primary or no formal education.

• Landholding: 44.7% own 2–5 acres; only 14.7% have <2 acres.

• Pest Control: 47.1% use chemical methods; 43.8% have shifted to IPM.

????? Production Challenges

• Top Issue: Climate variability (54.7%)

• Others: Market price fluctuations (20.9%), pest infections (16.8%)

???? Yields and Income

• Yield: 66.8% produce <10 quintals per acre; only 5% exceed 15 quintals.

• Income: 33.8% earn <?50,000/year from cotton; 35.6% earn >?1.5 lakh—showing income disparity.

???? Input Decisions

• 40.6% rely on past experience, 23.8% on expert advice, and 22.1% on dealers.

• Lack of professional guidance impacts effective input use and yields.

????? Marketing Issues

• Key Problems: Low prices (50.3%), poor market access (19.4%), quality rejection (16.5%)

• Market Info Sources: 33.5% use word-of-mouth; only 22.6% use mobile apps.

• Price Satisfaction: 52.9% are satisfied, but 17% are neutral or dissatisfied.

???? Chi-Square Analysis Results (Significant Findings)

Interpretation:

• Climate challenges and pest issues lower yields.

• Larger landowners achieve better productivity.

• Expert advice or experience leads to higher yields than trial-and-error or dealer reliance.

? Key Takeaways

• Farmers face low productivity, price volatility, and marketing barriers.

• Many rely on informal knowledge, lack exposure to digital tools or government schemes.

• Education, land size, and access to accurate input information strongly influence yield and income.

???? Suggestions for Improvement

1. Training in modern techniques and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

2. Support smallholders with inputs, credit, and insurance.

3. Develop climate-resilient farming models.

4. Strengthen market access with real-time price data and infrastructure.

5. Improve advisory services and promote digital literacy.

6. Facilitate greater awareness and uptake of government schemes.

Conclusion

This research sheds light on the various difficulties cotton farmers in Middle Gujarat face, such as unpredictable weather, pest problems, and unstable markets. The study shows that the size of landholdings, challenges during production, and how farmers gain information about inputs all play a crucial role in determining their cotton yield. While many farmers still depend on their experience, there is a noticeable shift toward seeking expert advice and using sustainable pest control methods like Integrated Pest Management. Income inequality and limited access to markets continue to pose challenges for many farmers. To support these farmers better, efforts should focus on improving education, providing access to reliable resources, strengthening resilience against climate risks, and enhancing market connectivity. Such measures can help improve both the productivity and livelihoods of cotton farmers in this region.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Vandankumar M. Patel, Dr. Dheeraj Pandey. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.